Hundreds of Black women from the Portland metro area are expected to attend the highly anticipated Black Women's Gathering Oct. 28. This is a day of celebration, sharing "herstories," and bringing talents, passions and commitment for social justice to strengthen Black families.

Embracing the theme, "Together We Rise in Strength, Unity & Community," the Black Women’s Gathering is designed to affirm the power and emotional strength of Black women, as reputable studies show Black women are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of race-related stress. As coping strategies, "we tend, befriend, mend and keep it in," writes author Angela Neal-Barnet, who wrote, “Soothe Your Nerves: The Black Woman’s Guide to Understanding and Overcoming Anxiety, Panic, and Fear."

This free event will be the first official revival of the largest gathering of Black women in more than two decades. It originally was organized in the 1980s after the domestic-violence related death of a Black woman at the hands of her partner. The annual gathering, which lasted for 20 years, served as a place for Black women to share food, create alliances, develop mentors and reflect on community issues.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Portland Community College, Cascade Campus, 705 North Killingsworth St. Admission is free but RSVPs are strongly encouraged.